One Dark Window (The Shepherd King, #1)

by Rachel Gillig

“Besides,” Ione continued, “perhaps Hauth will be a different kind of Rowan King than those who came before him.” The Nightmare growled at the name Rowan, his claws scraping through my mind. I shushed him. “How do you imagine?” I asked. “He’s so magnetic—attuned. A true leader. Perhaps, under him, the Destriers will be a symbol of protection, not oppression. Perhaps he will be a King who does not hurt those who catch the infection, but lets them convalesce. A King of abundance, not fear. A better Rowan King.” I gritted my teeth. When I spoke, my voice was not gentle. “That Hauth Rowan does not exist, Ione. You’ve made him up in your mind.” My cousin’s arm slipped out of my grip. “If everyone was as distrustful as you, Bess, Blunder would never change.” My laughter was hollow. “Better distrustful than delusional.”